A new study of over 900 women aged 40 to 79 found that regular sexual activity may help protect against vulvar pain, irritation, and dryness that commonly contribute to decreased sexual interest with age. While sexual desire, arousal, and lubrication scores declined significantly with age, orgasm and satisfaction remained stable across age groups. Women who engaged in sexual activity within the past three months (considered “regular”) showed a lower prevalence of genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) symptoms compared to those with less frequent activity.
Overall, the research suggests that maintaining regular sexual activity may help preserve sexual function and reduce bothersome menopausal symptoms affecting the vulva and vagina. However, researchers emphasize that effective treatments like low-dose vaginal estrogen therapy should be offered to all women experiencing these symptoms, regardless of their sexual activity level.
Image credit: Olga Sazonova / iStock